Difference Between Jute and Sisal

Jute and sisal are natural fibers that are used to make many different products. Rugs made of jute and sisal are very popular in western countries because of their warmth and durability. Because these rugs look very similar, it becomes difficult for people to differentiate between the two. However, there are differences between jute ad sisal that will be talked about in this article.

Jute

Jute fibers are made from the cellulose and lignin obtained from the plant of the same name. These fibers are the 2nd most popular natural fibers after cotton. Jute was traditionally grown in the Indian subcontinent and supplied fibers for making not only ropes and gunny bags but also clothes for poor people. There are two varieties of jute plants namely white jute and Tossa jute.

Bengal is the largest jute producing region in the world. Today, with Bengal having been divided into East and West Bengal and now into West Bengal and Bangladesh, the region still remains the largest producer of jute. The raw jute is obtained from the stem and the outer skin of the jute plant. Though jute fibers are mostly used to make cloth to carry cotton bales, jute is also used to weave carpets and rugs. Rope made from jute is very popular in western countries.

Sisal

Sisal is a plant that provides natural fibers used to make ropes, and nowadays even carpets and rugs. Sisal is a term that is used both for the plant as well as its fibers. Sisal actually is agave that was originally grown in Mexico but has spread to many other parts of the world such as Africa, US (especially Florida), Brazil, and Asia. The leaves of agave are crushed in such a manner so that the leaves produce the fibers. Brushing of these fibers allows their cleaning. These fibers are dried and then woven to make different products.

Jute vs Sisal

• Jute is native to the Bengal region that is divided between India and Bangladesh whereas Sisal is native to Mexico.

• Jute fibers are obtained from the stem and outer skin of the jute plant, whereas sisal fibers are obtained from the leaves of this agave.

• Rugs made from jute fibers are smooth and soft, but sisal rugs appear to be harsh and are not suitable for people having sensitive feet.